Nutrition Help/Advice - Too Many Choices!

CrossfitMama41

Hi All - I am trying to figure out the right nutrition plan for myself. A little background: lost 20 lbs the past 8 mos, but need to lose 10-15 more. I do CrossFit 2-3 times a week and run 3-4 days (3-5 miles during the week and 7-12 miles on the weekend). I will start triathlon training in March. I have tried a couple of different plans from Paleo to the Zone to gluten-free. They somewhat work, but none necessarily do I see working for me long-term. And that is what I'm really aiming for. I need to figure out how to lose these last 10-15 and also what to eat to keep the weight off once I hit my weight goals and then to start leaning out and gaining more muscle.

I did a metabolic test a couple of years ago and to lose weight at the weight I'm at now (153), I need to stay 1400-1500 calories daily, up to 1700-1800 on days I workout (regardless of amount of time). To maintain right now, 1800-2000, but again, I'm trying to lose more at this point.

I'm a very picky eater, hence one of the reasons I don't do well Paleo/Zone, etc. I don't any type of fish and only about 12 vegetables (I know, crazy!!!). I am just finishing up a challenge that was supposed to be a sugar detox and have been miserable. Haven't lost any weight and am cranky. Was very restrictive and I don't think I was getting enough calories (daily avg was 1100!).

Anyway...with doing endurance type sports, I do need some carbs (at least I feel I do!). Anyone else dealing with this at all and have any advice? I would like to try to stay at least gluten-free except for an occasional "cheat" meal of chips and salsa or pizza. Everything in moderation, right?! Any sage advice out there to help get these last lbs off, but also a "livable" nutrition plan that you swear by? I feel like I know what to eat, but at the same time, maybe I don't and I'm being duped?! Argh. As in my subject line...too many choices! And not sure what course I should be taking....

themutineer

A consultation with a licensed dietician costs about as much as a pair of running shoes.
Honestly, the best thing you can do is talk to a subject matter expert that can help set up a plan that is specifically tailored to you.
It's well worth it!

Duck_Puddle

Have you considered dropping all the "plans" and just trying a balanced diet made up of fruits, veggies, lean protiens, whole grains/complex carbs, dairy and whatever else floats your boat? Just an idea.